Netanyahu Acknowledges US VP J.D. Vance's Warning but Disagrees with Some Views

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded to remarks made by US Vice President J.D. Vance during an interview with Fox News on Sunday. Vance had cautioned the Israeli cabinet against attacking their strongest ally in the world, urging calm and presenting a contrasting perspective on the current situation. Netanyahu expressed respect for Vance and affirmed their good relationship but clarified, "I respect him and we have a very good relationship, but that does not mean I agree with everything he says."

Netanyahu also highlighted his close ties with former US President Donald Trump, calling him "the greatest friend Israel has ever had in the White House" and stating his full support for Trump. Addressing reports of severe tensions between Israel and the US, Netanyahu emphasized that he and Trump agreed on 99% of issues and that occasional disagreements were openly discussed and resolved. He underscored the strong alliance between the two countries, saying, "America calls us an exemplary ally because unlike others, we fight alongside you, shoulder to shoulder. There is no better ally to Israel than America, and no better ally to America than Israel."

Rejecting claims of Israel’s diplomatic isolation, Netanyahu attributed such narratives to a passing trend fueled by anti-Israel and antisemitic content in foreign media and social networks. He noted that behind the scenes, many world leaders communicate privately to express respect and interest in cooperation with Israel, including business deals and learning from Israel’s military, artificial intelligence, and cyber expertise.

As an example of global support, Netanyahu cited Israel’s warm relations with India, a country of 1.4 billion people, highlighting the overwhelming popular support he receives there on social media platforms like Facebook. He concluded by affirming that Israel has many other international friends beyond what is visible publicly.